ESP is thrilled to present a stunning signature axe: the LTD Signature Royal Shiva. Designed to the specifications of Mastodon guitarist Bill Kelliher, the Royal Shiva’s maple-capped mahogany body and captivating finish take their cues from iconic late-’70s silver-burst single-cut guitars. But the Royal Shiva carves out a kingdom of its own with a more comfortable double-cut body shape that’s infinitely more maneuverable onstage. You’ll love how your fingers fall into place on the Royal Shiva’s 22-fret ebony fingerboard and how a set neck joint puts those higher frets within reach. Moreover, the Royal Shiva’s crown jewels are two signature Hellbender humbuckers designed by Mojotone and Bill Kelliher. Each Hellbender pickup is individually voiced using alnico magnets blended with ceramic, a potent potion that supercharges old-school humbuckers with extra oomph and clearer attack. Peasants and lords all agree: only the ESP LTD Signature Royal Shiva gives Bill Kelliher’s tonal prowess a faire treatment.

Top-tier tonewoods meet top-notch playability

The LTD Signature Bill Kelliher Royal Shiva’s mahogany body is the perfect vessel for Mastodon-like tones. Mahogany generates tidal waves of sustain and thick tones when distorted and has rich, warm qualities when played clean. The Royal Shiva’s body shape opens up superior fingerboard access, and you’ll be tempted to climb inside the cutaways. As you traverse those hinterland frets, you’ll rejoice at the Royal Shiva’s maple cap, which teases out greater complexity and definition. A supportive “U” profile mahogany neck with a set joint complements all of the above while also adding a bump in sustain. Moreover, the neck’s 3-piece construction improves overall resistance to adverse climate factors, thus keeping your setup intact and leaving you free to travel confidently.

Signature Mojotone pickups

The Royal Shiva wouldn’t be complete without Bill Kelliher’s signature Hellbender humbuckers onboard! A collaboration with Mojotone, Hellbender humbuckers are individually voiced with unique wire gauges and blended alnico/ceramic magnets tailored for peak performance in each position. Mojotone squeezed more oomph from traditional alnico magnets by incorporating ceramic into the mix. As a result, Hellbenders are incredibly assertive with tight attack and bold sustain. These traits make Hellbenders perfect for driving and articulate fretwork, but they’re also capable of sophisticated cleans. Further, Hellbenders sound exceptional when coil-tapped, and Bill Kelliher even uses Hellbenders in the studio. Hear them yourself on Mastodon’s 2021 studio album, Hushed and Grim.